Singapore Relocation™ - Overview

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An Introduction Singapore by the numbers

1: World-wide ranking of students in math & science

1: World Bank 2013 ranking for ease of doing business

Singapore: 4: Official state languages: English, Mandarin, A Recent History Malay & Tamil

Founded by the British in 1819 by Sir Stamford 18 : Number of nationally recognized museums Raffles, Singapore quickly distinguished itself as an important strategic, commercial, and military outpost. 20 : Maximum tax rate for individuals in percent In 1824, Singapore officially became a British colony when a treaty was signed making it an important asset of the British 30 : Average daily temperature in Fahrenheit, 30 East Company. Successful trade Celsius brought wealth and progress until World War II and the ill-fated Battle of Singapore in 1942. Called ‘the largest capitulation in British history’ by Winston Churchill, the 96 : Literacy rate in percent Japanese victory and subsequent occupation was brutal until repossession came in September 1945. 90.5: Home ownership rate in percent In 1963, Singapore joined the Malaysian Federation, but two years later it separated under the guidance of its founding father, 100: Number of Starbucks nationwide Lee Kuan Yew.

Under Minister Mentor Lee’s leadership, : Square kilometers total land area, roughly Singapore has emerged as one of the 710 the size of New York’s 5 boroughs world’s most modern and vibrant nations. The country is a global hub for banking, transportation & shipping, biotechnology, and entertainment. Its casinos rival that of 5,399,200: Population estimate 2013 Las Vegas, and the nation hosts the only night F1 Grand Prix in the world.

Whether you consider the mysterious durian the ‘king of fruits’ or a public scourge, its unique flavor is pervasive in Singapore. Durian finds its way into cream puffs, cappuccinos, ice cream, moon cakes, even curries ~ but never on public transport, where it is banned because of its distinct, pungent aroma. Singapore Overview

CULTURALLY DIVERSE POPULATION

Ethnicity

3.3 %

9.1 % 13.3 %

74.2 %

Singapore lies within the equatorial global green belt: the world’s tropical rainforests. Year round, the weather is hot and humid with two distinct monsoon seasons in June and December.

Chinese 74.2 % Malay 13.3 % Indian 9.1 % Others 3.3 % The COST of LIVING Religion Singapore enjoys a very high standard of 0.7 % living, for both its local population and its 5.1 % expatriate residents. Boasting some of 10.9 % the best living conditions in Southeast 33.3 % 14.7 % Asia, Singapore has a well-earned reputation for exemplary cleanliness, healthcare and public safety. Imported goods, particularly 17 % 18.3 % food can be expensive. With a seemingly boundless offering of local alternatives, the savvy expat learns to take advantage of the exotic local fare while experiencing one of Singapore’s inherent benefits: its cultural diversity. Many expatriates still 33.3 % 18.3 % 17 % enjoy a housing allowance from their 14.7 % 10.9 % 5.1 % employer, which can offset the substantial 0.7 % living costs associated with renting. The private rental market almost exclusively Mercer's ranking of cost of living in 2014. concentrates on expats, as there is a nd local home ownership rate of 90.5 2 : Asia Pacific percent.

4th : Worldwide

HDBs are 3 – 5 room (and the new Executive) flats that are government subsidized, relatively affordable and occupied by the vast majority of Singaporeans. These flats are not actually owned, but leased in a 99-year lease-hold and are located in housing estates, which are serviced by MRTs, Singapore’s subway system. Housing estates are self-contained satellite towns with schools, supermarkets, medical clinics, hawker centers, as well as sports and recreational facilities. Foreigners are restricted from purchasing HDBs, but renting is possible for those who meet certain requirements. Singapore Overview

Private Housing Options RENTING & CONDOMINIUMS or apartments comprise the majority of medium to high density housing in Singapore. BUYING Common areas can include amenities such as resort-style pools, tennis courts, gyms and BBQ pits. In SINGAPORE Most have 24-hour security. Size can range from cozy Currently foreigners are not subject to rental to palatial. restrictions for any private residential property types in Singapore. Some landlords do, however, SEMI-DETACHED housing is generally built in pairs require a ‘company lease’ -- one that is with two mirror-imaged units sharing a common wall, signed by the individual’s employer. with a small plot of land that usually includes a parking space. Semi-Ds can have deceptively spacious interi- There are certain restrictions that apply to ors. expatriates who wish to buy property in Singapore. Under the Residential Property TERRACE HOUSES, also called row houses or town Act, a foreign person cannot acquire or houses, are built in a row of at least 3 and usually have purchase restricted residential property in identical floor plans. Typically only the ‘end terrace’ Singapore unless prior approval is granted has a garden. A shop house is a colonial era terrace by the Ministry of Law. Such properties house, which was built as a combination retail and include: residential space in the early part of the 20th century. ‡9DFDQW5HVLGHQWLDO/DQG CLUSTER HOMES, a relatively new option in housing in Singapore, are smaller developments of detached or ‡/DQGHG3URSHUWLHVLQFOXGLQJ6HPL'VDQG semi-detached homes that share a common area and terraced houses amenities such as a pool. ‡/DQGHGSURSHUW\LQDVWUDWDGHYHORSPHQW BUNGALOWS or landed properties are completely which is not an approved condominium standalone residences surrounded by a walled garden. development under the Planning Act They are in short supply in Singapore where land is scarce, and generally not located near MRT stations. A foreigner is not restricted, however, from acquiring: CONSERVATION HOUSING or ‘black and whites’ were built after the First World War originally to house ‡$Q\DSDUWPHQWZLWKLQDEXLOGLQJ British officers. The majority are owned and leased directly from the government. Tenants bear the bulk of ‡$Q\XQLWRIDQDSSURYHGFRQGR the maintenance costs in a black and white, a trade off development under the Planning Act for relatively lower rents, uncommonly large gardens and the opportunity to live in these gracious, vintage ‡$OHDVHKROGHVWDWHLQDUHVWULFWHGUHVLGHQWLDO homes. property for a term not to exceed seven years

Note: A foreign person is not allowed to Useful Conversions: 1 Hectare = 2.47 Acres purchase all the apartments within a building, 1,000 ft2 = 93m2 or all the units without prior approval. Since 2004, foreigners are NOT restricted from buying landed property at Cove, an upmarket residential development located on Sentosa Island. Singapore Overviewview

What is the national bird of Singapore? The building crane… CURRENCY

The currency of Singapore is Housing in Singapore is as varied as its population, ulatio and nd known as the dollar and is often constantly reinventing itself as ‘older buildings’ (some as represented by a letter “S” young as 30 years) are torn down in favor of sleeker, more preceding the dollar sign to avoid modern designs. Despite the fact that you can see and hear confusion: construction everywhere, some common elements still exist in the residential market: S $100.00 Singapore’s strict building codes and safety standards The ISO abbreviation is SGD. represent the best of . Each dollar is divided into 100 cents, although Singapore pennies From the smallest low-rise apartment buildings to the were no longer issued after 2003. largest, grandest estates, all properties are enclosed with The 5 cent piece followed in a wall of fence creating a private, defined space. 2006.

Ovens, a western convention, are still not included in all housing, but many larger homes include two kitchens: wet and dry.

Properties are often listed by the number of bedrooms followed by a “+1”. For example, a 4 +1 is a four bedroom residence with one additional room for a study or for live-in help. Currently there are 4 coins Poured concrete construction is the norm. It provides a issued by the Singapore mint: cooler, quieter, pest-free alternative to wood construction. S $1.00 S $0.20 While air conditioning or ‘air/con’ is widespread throughout S $0.50 S $0.10 Singapore, central air conditioning is not. Most residences have split air/con units in each room.

Pet Culture In Singapore The rising pet culture, although a relatively new phenomenon in Singapore, is taking hold and marked by the proliferation of pet stores, pet-friendly dining establishments, and dog parks. The island nation has strict rules regarding quarantine and limits the breeds that can be both imported into Singapore and are allowed in public HDB housing. Singapore even has its very own breed of cat, the Singapura. While Singaporeans are fond of dogs, they prefer smaller breeds and associate larger breeds with guard dogs. Potential landlords may or may not allow pets, and it’s best to ask up front when house hunting. Singaporere OverviewOverview

Singapore’s Regions & Districts Singapore’s mainland is a diamond shaped island that can be divided into regions to facilitate planning and development. These planning regions are demarcated on the map to the right, with the district numbers in red. While careful consideration should be taken when deciding on where to work and live, it’s important to remember that at just 14 miles high, by 35 wide, nothing in Singapore is ‘too far.’ Through careful civic planning, public transportation has kept up with the ambitious land reclamation projects that have added over 50 square miles to the total land area in the last 40 years.

CENTRAL

Districts 1-4 WEST Quay, China- town, , Districts 5 Suntec City, Queens- and 21 – 24 town, Sentosa NORTH-EAST , Dover, Districts 6 –15 Pasir Pangang, Districts 19, 20 West Coast, Clemen- and 28 NORTH Orchard, City Hall, ti, Upper , Beach Road, Little Hume Avenue, Districts India, Cairnhill, Bukit , , 25 – 27 EAST Timah, Holland, , , , , , Newton, Toa , Seng Kang, Ang Mo Admiralty, Wood- Payoh, , Hillview Avenue, Kio, Thompson, lands, Tagore, Districts 16 – 18 Eunos, , , , Braddell Road, , , Bay Shore, , , Marine Sungei Gedong, , Seletar, , Loyang, Parade, Tengah Yio Chu Kang

Singapore was originally divided into 28 postal codes in 1950 when the population had just surpassed one million. Though the postal agency added digits to the postal codes over the years (there are currently 6 digits, allowing for a separate postal code for each building), the original 28 postal codes are still in use today and survive as the district codes listed above. Their familiarity makes them well known to Singaporeans and expatriates alike. The Fullerton Hotel (left) occupies the former General Post Office building. Singapore Overview

Core Central, Rest of Central and Outside Central

Singapore can also be divided into three distinct regions: Core Central, Rest of Central and Outside Central. Real estate is often analyzed using these regions since data may be limited in the North, North-East and West regions

CORE CENTRAL REST OF CENTRAL OUTSIDE CENTRAL Districts Districts 1, 4 (Sentosa) 2, 3, 4 (except Sentosa) Districts 6, 7 (some areas) and 7 (some areas), 8, 12, 13, 5,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 9,10, 11 14, 15 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28

Singapore’s Acronyms ~ A Quick Guide

AYE JB Johor Bahru, Malaysia BKE Bukit Timak Expressway LRT Light CBD Central Business District NETS Network for Electronic Transfers CPF Central Provident Fund NS National Service CTE Central Expressway MRT Mass Rapid Transit ECP PIE ERP Electronic Road Pricing PAP People’s Action Party GST Goods and Services Tax PUB Public Utilities Board HDB Housing Development Board

Visit srx.com.sg/heat-map for real-time property prices for each district. Singapore Overview

Getting Around in Singapore: Cars

Owning a car in Singapore is more expensive than in other major international cities. As the island is small, the government seeks to control the number of cars driving on it by maintaining a quota scheme and charging extra fees and taxes not found in other countries.

Most foreigners will experience sticker shock when they shop for a car in Singapore. As a result, some decide to forego owning a car and take taxis and public transportation while others opt to lease a car. Leasing a car is not cheap either, costing well over S$1,000 a month for a mundane brand car.

The COE, or Certificate of Entitlement, wawass introduced in Singapore in 1990 to limit private car ownership,ownership, thereby controlling traffic and road congestion.congestion. The Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) systemem is a toll system set up around the island to limitlimit the traffic flow into the CBD or Central Business District.District. Every vehicle has an IU (In-vehicle Unit), whichwhich is used to pay for road usage and in an increasing number of car parks.

WWhenhen you purchase a car, the price tag will iincludenclude the following components: ‡‡2SHQ02SHQ0aarketrket Value (OMV); ‡‡&HUWLILFDWHRI&HUWLILFDWHRIEnEntitlementtitlement (COE), which is the vehicle quota for a given year is administered through the monthly release of the COE; ‡‡'XWLHVW'XWLHVWaaxesxes and other fees.

If you already have a foreign or international driver’s license, you have twelve months to obtain a Singaporean driver’s license by passing a written examination.

You will be tested on small details, so make sure you study! Singapore Overview

Singapore’s World Class Mass Transit System

Getting around Singapore on public transportation is fun and relatively inexpensive. On buses and MRTs, you use an Ez-link card to pay your fares. You purchase the tap-and-go smart card at MRT stationsstations and top them up there or at locallocal 7-Eleven convenience stores

MMRT and LRT

MMRTR stands for Mass Rapid Transportation, and it is Singapore’s susubway.bw It is clean, efficient, and convenient to the major aareasrea of the country. MRT operates four main rail lines, and tthehe Singapore SMRT website is a great place to plan your jjourneyourneyour and access information on the system.

Taxisaxis

Taxis in Singapore are ubiquitous, except when it rains heavily or during a shift change. However, for the most part, taxi services are excellent, and most drivers speak English. Compared to other large cities, taxi fares in Singapore are reasonable. You can book a taxi in advance by phone or SMS. Note that there are surcharges for booking a cab and during peak hours, as well as extra charges on public holidays. The largest cab company is Comfort CityCab, and it can be booked by calling (65) 6552 1111 or SMS-ing 71222.

Buses

The bus system will take you to almost any destination in Singapore. It is relatively inexpensive and the buses are in very good condition. During rush hour, expect the buses to be crowded. The best way to plan your bus route is to go to gothere.sg and enter your starting point and final destination. The site will calculate the best route for your journey.

Is Chewing Gum banned in Singapore? Quick answer: Technically, no. The import and sale of gum is banned, however, except for pharmaceutical use, which is why a small amount of gum is sold in Singapore through pharmacies. In 1987, Singapore invested a whopping S$5 billion dollars into its state-of-the-art subway system. When then-Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong discovered that discarded chewing gum was preventing the MRT doors from functioning properly, he decided on the ban to ensure the subway system worked flawlessly. The ban was amended in 1999 so that dentists or pharmacists could sell prescription gum. Singapore Overview

Healthcare in Singapore Singapore’s healthcare system is administered by the government with its usual efficiency and thoroughness. With doctors trained in the finest universities worldwide, the resulting medical care and facilities are among the finest in the Asia. Because of Singapore’s world-class medical standards, it has become a regional hub for patient care, as well as for research and development. Patients are free to choose the providers within the government or private healthcare delivery system and can walk in for a consultation at any private clinic or any government polyclinic.

Public Hospitals Singapore District Region was ranked Community Hospital 20 North East 6th Changi General Hospital 18 East in the World Health Organization's KK Women's & Children's Hospital 9 Central ranking of the world's National University Hospital 5 West health systems in the year 2000. Tan Tock Seng Hospital 11 Central Alexandra Hospital 3 Central Singapore General Hospital 3 Central Khoo Teck Puat Hospital 27 North

Private Hospitals District Region Adam Road Hospital 10 Central Camden Medical Centre 9 Central Gleneagles Hospital and Medical Centre 10 Central Mount Alvernia Hospital and Medical Centre 11 Central Mount Elizabeth Hospital and Medical Centre 9 Central Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital and Specialist Centre 11 Central Novena Medical Center 11 Central Paragon Medical Centre 9 Central Parkway East Hospital and Medical Centre 16 East 7 Central Thomson Medical Centre 11 Central West Point Hospital 22 West

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is widely practiced in Singapore, as well, and includes such treatments as Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and both Tui na and Shiatsu massage Singapore Overview

International Schools Name District Region DGP Region Education in Australian International School 19 North East Outside Central Canadian International School (Elementary) 21 West Outside Central Singapore Deutsche Europäische Schule Singapur 11 Central Core Central Hollandse School 11 Central Core Central International or Local ? Norwegian Supplementary School 5 West Outside Central Overseas Family School 9 Central Rest of Central As a result of its extensive and Japanese Secondary School 5 West Outside Central varied expatriate community, Sekolah Indonesia Singapura 15 Central Rest of Central Singapore has a large number of Shibuya Makuhari Senior High School 5 West Outside Central international schools, most catering Canadian International School (Middle) 22 West Core Central to a specific curriculum or nationality. Canadian International School (Secondary) 11 Central Core Central The largest of all, Singapore American Chatsworth International School East Campus 15 Central Rest of Central School - with an enrollment topping Chatsworth International School () 28 North East Outside Central 3,800 -- has a diversified student Chinese Unite International School 11 Central body with representatives from Core Central more than 50 countries. As with Dover Court Preparatory School 5 West Outside Central most international schools however, ER International School 21 West Outside Central the Singapore government bars Eton House International School 3 Central Rest of Central Singaporeans from attending Global Indian Campus 1 3 Central Rest of Central international and private schools Italian Supplementary School (Italian Embassy) 11 Central Core Central with two notable exceptions: Japanese Kindergarten 5 West Outside Central Anglo-Chinese International and Japanese School (Primary) 17 East Outside Central Hwa Chong International. Japanese Supplementary School 5 West Outside Central Korean Church Kindergarten 11 Central Core Central The local education system, once criticized for being too rigid and Rosemount Kindergarten 15 Central Rest of Central specialized, and depending too Shelton College International 4 Central Core Central much on rote learning, has made American College 2 Central Rest of Central great strides in recent years to take Swedish Supplementary School 9 Central Core Central on a more holistic approach to Anglo-Chinese School (International) 10 Central Core Central education. A greater focus on creative Hwa Chong International School 10 Central Core Central and critical thinking and life-long Lycee Francais De Singapour 20 North East Outside Central learning has been introduced by ISS International School (Preston Campus) 4 Central Core Central the Ministry of Education to ISS International School (Elementary) 9 Central Core Central address these concerns and to ensure that Singaporean students Singapore American School 25 North Outside Central can compete and thrive on a global Swiss School 11 Central Core Central level. United World College of South East Asia 5 West Outside Central Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts 7 Central Core Central Taking into account the excellence Chatsworth International School 15 Central Central of the local education system, the DPS International School (Delhi Public School) 19 North East Outside Central long waitlists at many international Finnish Supplementatry School (S'pore Land Twr) 9 Central Core Central schools and the ever-shrinking Global Indian International School 12 Central Rest of Central "expat package," more and more International Community School 5 West Outside Central expatriates are considering Japanese School 5 West Singaporean local schools a viable Outside Central option for their children. Lock Road Kindergarten 4 Central Core Central Singapore Korean School 11 Central Core Central SJI International School 11 Central Core Central 5 West Outside Central Visit srx.com.sg/singapore-international-schools for real-time property prices and rents near international schools. Singapore Overview

MacRitchie Reservoir & Trails: The MacRitchie Singapore’s Parks Reservoir was completed in 1868, and its surrounding forest of about 600 hectares was and Nature Reserves declared a water catchment reserve. More recently, the HSBC TreeTop walk was added, Despite its small size, Singapore is blessed with many bringing 250-meters of elevated suspension walkways parks and nature reserves: along the canopy of the forest.

Singapore Botanic Gardens: Sir , the founder of Singapore and a keen naturalist, created the first Botanic Garden at Fort Canning in 1822. It was later moved to its present location, stretching from Holland Road to . It also includes the spectacular .

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: Boardwalks pass through this thriving wetland in northwestern Bukit Timah Nature Reserve: Just 12 km from the Singapore. Some of the wonders on display are city, this 164-hectare reserve includes Singapore’s mangroves, otters, mudskippers, tree-climbing highest hill, which stands at over 163 meters, and crabs, and monitor lizards. retains the only substantial area of primary rainforest left in Singapore. It also has a very challenging * * * mountain bike trail.

East Coast Park: With a total land size of 185 hectares and a scenic coastline that stretches over 15km, is one of Singapore’s most treasured urban getaways, attracting more than 7.5 million visitors a year.

Fort Canning Park: This park comprises the most historic part of Singapore. Malay and Chinese records point to the “Forbidden Hill” as being the center of a kingdom that arose around 1300 A.D. Near one of the busiest shopping areas, Fort Canning offers cool, shady walks.

Kallang Riverside Park: This park, situated on both sides of River, is a haven for watersports (For a complete list of Singapore’s more than 50 enthusiasts. On weekends, teams, major parks and nature reserves, visit kayakers, and waterskiers gather and compete. http://www.nparks.gov.sg )

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Singapore’s Reservoirs, Surrender and the Old Ford Factory

Singapore’s reservoirs which today are inviting, quiet havens in our cityscape played an important role in the fall of Singapore in 1942. The Japanese had surprised the British command, coming from the North, rather than the south as expected. Within days, food and petrol warehouses were seized by the advancing enemy, but still the British held on. When at last the Japanese gained control of the reservoirs, Percival surrendered to Lt. Gen. Yamashita after marching up Bukit British Lt. Gen. Percival surrenders to Timah Road and meeting him at the Old Ford Factory. the Japanese, February 1942 Singapore Overview

Singapore’s Sports and Social Clubs

Singaporeans and expats often join one of the many private-membership clubs on the island, which are great places to meet In addition, Singapore also has a wealth of people, socialize, and engage in sports. specialty and sports clubs that offer opportunities Many of these clubs also have programs that to enjoy the beautiful outdoors: cater to children. Please contact the clubs Archery Club of Singapore directly for information on joining. Here are some of the clubs popular with expats: Bukit Timah Saddle Club Ceylon Sports Club The American Club Changi Club The British Club Green Fairways Golf Club The China Club Marina Bay Golf Course The Hollandse Club One°15 Marina Club The Pines Club PWD Sports Club The Raffles Town Club Raffles Marina The Swiss Club Gardens Country Club The Tanglin Club Singapore Cricket Club The Tower Club Singapore Dragon Boat Association Singapore Gun Club Country Club Search for homes near these clubs using Singapore Swimming Club SRX’s Lifestyles advanced search . The Republic of Singapore Yacht Club The Singapore Polo Club

The Sticky Wicket of Cricket

The SiSingaporengapore CricketCric Club, established in 1852, is the second oldest club in Singapore (the SiSingapore Turf Club is older by 10 years). The Club still occupies its venerated home at the very core of the city's colonial heart. The Padang (Indonesian or Malay for ‘field’), formerly known as the Padang Cricket Ground, is an important public space adjacent to the Club that has witnessed many of Singapore's triumphs and defeats.

The Cricket Club and Padang are surrounded by historic buildings: City Hall, The Raffles Hotel, St. Andrew's Cathedral, the Supreme Court, Parliament House, the Victoria Theatre and Memorial Hall. In as early as 1837, Cricket was played on the Padang, brought to Singapore by the British who founded the island just 18 years earlier. Cricket is still played here today, as well as rugby and other field sports. Singapore Overview

Singapore’s

Consistently ranked amongst the best in the world, Singapore's Changi Airport is home base to Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, AirAsia, Scoot, Tiger, Jetstar Asia Airways and Valueair. More than 53 million passengers passed through its doors in 2013, on their way to or from the more-than 250 cities served by over 100 airlines.

Finding things to do with extra transit time is never a problem at Changi; sprinkled throughout its passenger terminals is everything from world-class dining and spa services to swimming pools and nature walks. Strolling to the departure gates, it’s not unusual to see travelers napping in one of the specified “sleep zones” – and there are even special children’s areas equipped with the latest in computer games and play equipment.

Just the airport’s shopping options, alone, draw travelers in search of luxury goods and Singapore souvenirs to Changi. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, the sales at Changi’s retail shops outstrip those at Singapore malls – including those in the tourist hotspot of ! Domestic Help in Singapore Living overseas can offer expatriates unexpected opportunities, and in Southeast Asia, one of those opportunities often is the luxury of hiring domestic staff. Because of its relative economic strength, Singapore attracts many workers from nearby countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, who come to the Garden Island in search of jobs as domestic helpers. The vast majority are women, many of whom leave their home countries in search of better salaries to support their families and good working conditions.

For many expatriates, this situation means they may choose to employ a helper in their homes to assist with child care, cooking, cleaning, and laundry. It’s easy to underestimate the amount of time and work it takes in a foreign country to do things considered mundane back home, and many families appreciate the extra help of a live-in or part-time staff person.

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower regulates the immigration of domestic helpers, and it’s important to follow all the rules and stipulations carefully to avoid fines and penalties. Most expatriates use employment agencies to assist in hiring. Singapore Overview

SINGAPORE REGION BY REGION Central Region

The central region today boasts a wide choice of housing, business locations, recreational areas and The Central Area, located within the amenities. Well served by roads, highways and Central Region, comprises several public transportation, residents and visitors alike can distinct districts, each with a unique enjoy easy access to an exciting range of restaurants, character and mix of uses. shopping and entertainment hot spots. There are a wide variety of healthcare, educational, and community These include: facilities that include Singapore’s two largest hospitals: Singapore General Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital as well as other private facilities. The prime office districts of 1, 7, 6, 8, 9 that comprise the Central Business District (CBD)

The premier shopping corridor along Orchard Road (district 9)

The waterfront activity belt along the (districts 1, 2, 7, 6) Despite the plethora of amenities, the central region also boasts plenty of green spaces, including the The Arts, Culture, Entertainment Singapore Botanical Gardens, Bishan Park, East and Education enclave at Bras Coast Park and the tranquil Labrador Nature Basah (districts 3, 9) and Bugis Reserve and Park. Contained within (district 7) the central region is Sentosa Island, a resort destination located just off Singapore’s southern shore. Heritage and civic areas (districts 3, 6), Little India (district 8) and The overall planning of the Central Area aims to meet Chinatown (district 1) business needs. There are also many civic, cultural and community facilities like museums and theaters as well as the National Library on Victoria Street. The Central Area is a high-rise, high-density urban center that offers many landscaped open spaces for public enjoyment, ranging from the historical Fort Canning Park to the romantic .

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SINGAPORE REGION BY REGION North Region

The North Region today offers a range of options in which to live, work and play. The myriad housing choices in the North are well-served by amenities such as shopping centers, neighborhood centers, community facilities and schools. But it isn’t all hustle and bustle - tranquil retreats are also within easy reach of Northerners when they need to take a breather from urban life. They range from the natural charms of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and the , to the rustic farms of Lim Chu Kang and green areas like the newly opened .

Within easy reach of the MRT, Admiralty Park will become one of the few parks in Singapore to offer recreational amenities (such as an amphitheater, activity plaza and fitness equipment) as well as ready access to forested areas and mangrove habitats.

Once a laid-back coastal area occupied by warehouses, the newly opened Woodlands Waterfront offers a variety of recreational opportunities for people of all ages. Residents in the north can wind down after a hard day’s work and enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade to take in the beautiful sea view, or have a picnic in the lush green park. Fitness enthusiasts can jog along the refurbished jetty and catch a spectacular view of the sunrise.

Other highlights in the North include the award-winning Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. Set in a rainforest environment, the Zoo’s world famous ‘open concept’ offers visitors the opportunity to experience and be inspired by the wonders of nature. Home to over 2,500 specimens from 315 species, 16-percent of which are threatened, visitors can enjoy the experiential learning at the 28-hectare zoo.

The Night Safari, the world’s first wildlife park for nocturnal animals, is an eight-time winner of the best Visitor Attraction Experience, awarded by the Singapore Tourism Board. This internationally acclaimed zoo experience embodies innovation attracts more than 1.1 million visitors yearly. Over 1,000 animals from 115 species (of which 30-percent are threatened) inhabit the 40-hectare park.

Resident giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia, are the super stars in the newly opened River Safari, Asia's first and only water-themed wildlife park. As the largest panda exhibit built in Southeast Asia, their S$8.6 million home in Singapore - Giant Panda Forest is modeled after their natural habitat in China.

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SINGAPORE REGION BY REGION Northest Region

The Northeast region, with its rustic islands, busy commercial areas, old colonial airbase, industrial estates, and dynamic new towns, is home to over half-a-million residents. Those who work or study elsewhere in Singapore enjoy access via MRT lines and major expressways. A wide range of dining and retail outlets are conveniently located at commercial developments like Compass Point in and the recently completed Ang Mo Kio Hub. As for other forms of recreation, there are parks and sports complexes conveniently located throughout the region.

One of the key developments in this area is the Punggol Promenade: a 4.9 km long promenade that, completed in November 2011, is stretch from to Punggol Point (one of the last few undeveloped places in Singapore, located right at the end of Punggol town). The promenade is divided into three segments with distinctive themes catering to different users. Residents can walk, jog or cycle from to Punggol Point, Coney Island (located off the northeastern coast of Singapore, a popular island for camping and jet-skiing) and to experience the rustic setting along the coastline of Punggol Town. A park will also be constructed at Punggol Point as a key activity node.

A popular day trip, (Granite Island) is situated just off the northeast corner of Singapore. The 1020-hectare island is largely a series of undulating, granite hills. In the early days, granite mining supported a few thousand settlers. Much of the original vegetation was cleared for the cultivation of rubber and crops like coffee, pineapple, coconut and jasmine. Today, abandoned granite quarries remain as picturesque relics of Ubin’s history, while forests and grasslands have regenerated to cover up the ravages of the past.

A trip to Pulau Ubin is a throwback to Singapore in the 1960s. The island is home to Singapore’s last villages or kampongs. There are still about a hundred villagers living here. In contrast to the modern and efficient public utilities on mainland Singapore, Ubin residents rely on wells for water and noisy diesel generators for electricity. Some residents depend on traditional farming and for subsistence, while others tend to their provision stores and eateries. At the main village, near the jetty, some houses have been converted to bicycle rental shops to support a quiet tourist trade.

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SINGAPORE REGION BY REGION East Region

An established residential area, the East Region has excellent amenities such as shopping areas, schools and community facilities. There is an extensive transportation network that includes the East-West MRT line as well as major expressways. In terms of leisure, the East has attractive coastal parks, like the ever-popular East Coast Park and , as well as the 42 km Eastern Coastal Park Connector network, which was completed in 2007. The Eastern Region also is home to unique leisure destinations like rustic Changi Point and Siglap Village. The East region also boasts the new purpose-built United World College (UWC) campus that opened in 2010 to meet the needs of the growing expatriate population.

With a total land size of 185 hectares -- and a scenic coastline that stretches over 15km -- East Coast Park is one of Singapore’s most treasured urban getaways, attracting more than 7.5 million visitors each year. Themed ‘recreation for all,’ East Coast Park offers an exciting diversity of sporting, dining and recreational activities catering to various segments of the public. Bowling alleys, volleyball courts, holiday chalets, restaurants and a hawker center can all be found in this park. For those looking for action, East Coast Park also offers a myriad of sporting opportunities such as cycling, in-line skating, cable skiing and water sporting activities, as well as an Xtreme Skatepark for action sports enthusiasts to hone their techniques. In the evenings, bring your families and friends down for a barbecue or indulge in sumptuous cuisines at the East Coast Seafood Centre.

From a former sand quarry to a beautiful greenscape, Park enjoys popularity with joggers and water sports enthusiasts. Schools and organizations hold their regular marathons here, challenging themselves on the 4.3 km track. Dragon and dot the waters, and fishing hobbyists try their luck on the fishing deck. In spite of all these exhilarating activities, the reservoir park also invites you to explore its peaceful, quieter areas.

Search for homes in this area using SRX’s District advanced search . Singapore Overview

SINGAPORE REGION BY REGION West Region

The West is home to over one million residents who enjoy a variety of housing choices, an array of amenities such as shopping areas and community facilities, and good access to educational institutions. The region is well supported by an extensive transportation network, through the East-West and North-South MRT lines, LRT system, as well as major expressways including the AYE, KJE, BKE and PIE.

Also found in the West are extensive nature reserves, such as the popular Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (containing Singapore’s highest peak), a wide variety of town and neighborhood parks, and open spaces totaling 570 hectares linked by 27 km of park connectors.

The Jurong Bird Park and Singapore Science Centre are among other recreational options available to families. Though much of Singapore’s original vegetation has been cleared for logging and development, the forest at Bukit Timah has remained relatively undisturbed. Likewise, patches of primary rainforest can be seen around the MacRitchie area and Nee Soon Swamp at the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

Two of the top universities in Singapore, National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are also located in the West. A leading top-ranked university, NUS is Singapore’s flagship tertiary institution that offers a global approach to education and research with a focus on Asian perspectives. Its 16 faculties and schools across three campuses provides a broad-based curriculum underscored by multi-disciplinary courses and cross-faculty enrichment. Over 30,000 students from 100 countries further enrich the community with their diverse social and cultural perspectives.

NTU is an internationally respected, research-intensive university. The extensive fields of study cover science and technology, business and the Arts, entrepreneurial and leadership skills to prepare students for the global working world. NTU provides a high quality education to more than 23,000 undergraduate and 10,000 graduate students. The student body includes top scholars and international Olympiad medalists from the region and beyond.

Search for homes in this area using SRX’s District advanced search . Singapore Overview

Did you OVERPAY for rent? $8,200 Your SRX Guide to Singapore’s Rental Market

Familiarize yourself with Singapore 1 Heat Map provides you with a quick overview of prices by district. Also, you can browse schools and Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) by district. STEP

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Search by Location Try searching by your club (i.e, American Club, 2 Tanglin Club, etc.); a park (i.e., Chinese Gardens, etc.); your VMÄJL (i.e., MBFC,etc.); your school (i.e., United World College, etc.); MRT station, or by the

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Select Projects of Interest 3 SRX.com.sg is organized by projects. You choose the location. Then, we will show you all the nearby projects and their distances to your anchor location. STEP Singapore Overview

Browse and shortlist genuine listings

:PTWSPÄLKZ\WLYPVYVULZ[LWZLHYJOMVYSPZ[PUNZ Improved search for HDB and Landed properties 4 View more listings per page Intelligent geolocation search [eg. if you search byy Location (American Club), the result will return listingss

STEP within 2 KM radius] Easy, clean browsing for homes Quickly locate nearby Projects, nearby Schools, nearby MRTs, nearby Mall, Location Maps on the same page Hassle-free lead generation agent contact form

Contact Agent

There are two ways to contact agents: 2 You can select an agent who has 1 You can select the listing agent; recently transacted in the area.

5 STEP

When you consult with an SRX member agent you receive:

Privileged pricing information, including transactions that were used to calculate X-ValueTM;

Expert market advice, including the latest market trends, project analysis, and unit-level performance indicators;

Home ReportTM to help you establish your rent;

Access to agent-only rental co-broking channels Agent ConnectTM and SRX CirclesTM. Singapore Overview FOR SALE BUYING IN SINGAPORE? $ 1,200,000 Your SRX Guide to Singapore’s Property Market

Familiarize yourself with Singapore 1 Heat Map provides you with a quick overview of prices by district. Also, you can browse schools and Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) by district. STEP

Go to HeatMap

Review Similar Projects We show you all the nearby projects and their 2 distances to your home. Drill down into similar projects to see competitive listings. STEP

Go to SRX’s Property Search

Select Projects of Interest 3 SRX.com.sg is organized by projects. You choose the location. Then, we will show you all the nearby projects and their distances to your anchor location. STEP 5 4 STEP S

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SELLING IN SINGAPORE? SOLD $ 1,200,000 Your SRX Guide to Singapore’s Property Market

Search the Competition 1 Select *VUKV3HUKLK/+)VY5L^WYVQLJ[Z in SRX Property Search. Then, simply type your address or postal code into SRX’s location-based to identify all the projects in your area. STEP

Go to SRX’s Property Search

2 Review Similar Projects We show you all the nearby projects and their distances to your home. Drill down into similar

STEP projects to see competitive listings. STEP Singapore Overview

Browse and shortlist genuine listings

:PTWSPÄLKZ\WLYPVYVULZ[LWZLHYJOMVYSPZ[PUNZ Improved search for HDB and Landed properties 4 View more listings per page Intelligent geolocation search [eg. if you search byy Location (American Club), the result will return listingss

STEP within 2 KM radius] Easy, clean browsing for homes Quickly locate nearby Projects, nearby Schools, nearby MRTs, nearby Mall, Location Maps on the same page Hassle-free lead generation agent contact form

Contact Agent

There are two ways to contact agents: 2 You can select an agent who has 1 You can select the listing agent; recently transacted in the area.

5 STEP

When you consult with an SRX member agent you receive:

Privileged pricing information, including transactions that were used to calculate X-ValueTM;

Expert market advice, including the latest market trends, project analysis, and unit-level performance indicators;

Home ReportTM to help you establish your rent;

Access to agent-only rental co-broking channels Agent ConnectTM and SRX CirclesTM. SRX TM .com.sg Right Home. Right Price.

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